What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing tremors, muscle stiffness, or other movement problems that could be linked to Parkinson's disease, or if you're being monitored for a possible neural crest tumor like neuroblastoma or pheochromocytoma. It's also useful if you're already on L-DOPA treatment and need to check how well your body is responding. Your provider or care situation may point to this test when dopamine-related conditions are suspected.

What happens after I get my results?

Your HVA result will appear in your account along with the normal reference range so you can see exactly where your number falls. If your level is outside the expected range, next steps usually include repeat testing or pairing this result with a related test like VMA for a fuller picture. You can download a standard lab report straight from your account at any time, and if you test again in the future, the trends feature lets you track how your HVA levels change over time.

Who should consider this test?

People with symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremors or slowed movement, may want this test, as well as anyone being monitored for a possible neuroblastoma or pheochromocytoma. It's also useful for people already being treated with L-DOPA who want to track how their body is handling the medication. Family members with a history of neural crest tumors may also want to consider baseline testing.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Symptoms like hand tremors, muscle rigidity, slowed movements, or balance problems can be signs of a dopamine-related condition worth checking with this test. Unexplained abdominal masses, high blood pressure that comes and goes, sweating episodes, or rapid heartbeat can also point toward conditions like pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma. If you notice any of these symptoms persisting, this test can help clarify what's going on.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. Once processed, they'll be uploaded directly to your online account where you can view and download them. You'll get a notification as soon as your report is ready to view.

What is HVA and why does it matter?

HVA, or homovanillic acid, is a breakdown product your body makes after using dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement and mood. Measuring HVA in urine gives a window into how much dopamine your body is producing and processing. Unusual levels can point to conditions affecting the nervous system, including certain rare tumors and movement disorders.

How can I naturally support healthy dopamine levels?

Regular physical activity, quality sleep, and a diet rich in protein (which provides the building blocks for dopamine) can all support healthy dopamine function. Reducing chronic stress through activities like meditation or time outdoors may also help keep dopamine levels balanced. These habits won't replace medical treatment for a diagnosed condition, but they can support overall nervous system health.

What does high HVA mean?

A higher-than-expected HVA level can be a sign of a neural crest tumor, such as neuroblastoma or pheochromocytoma, especially when paired with an elevated VMA result. It can also simply reflect certain medications or dietary factors that affect dopamine metabolism. If your result comes back high, retesting or pairing it with additional tests is a reasonable next step, and any severe symptoms like a racing heart or dangerously high blood pressure should prompt urgent medical care.

What does low HVA mean?

A lower-than-expected HVA level may reflect reduced dopamine production, which is sometimes seen in Parkinson's disease or as a response to certain treatments. It can also occur if L-DOPA therapy is working as intended by changing how dopamine is processed. Tracking this value over time helps show whether a treatment plan is having the expected effect.

How often should I retest?

If you're monitoring a diagnosed condition like Parkinson's disease or tracking a response to L-DOPA treatment, retesting every few months is common, but this depends on your specific situation. If you're being monitored for a neural crest tumor, more frequent testing may be recommended during active treatment or surveillance. Using the trends feature in your account can help you and any care team see patterns over time.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HVA Urine Test - Parkinson's & Tumor Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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